Why New York’s Beer Economy Depends on Moderation, Connection and Smart Policy

As the president of one of America’s oldest family-owned breweries and one of the largest in New York State, I’ve spent my career watching how beer weaves itself into the fabric of
New York communities. For more than a century, breweries like ours have supported local jobs, strengthened Main Street businesses, and created places where people come
together. As we approach the holidays and look ahead to a new year, it’s worth recognizing how important beer remains to New York’s economy, culture, and social well-being, and
why smart policy matters more than ever.

New York is one of the nation’s leading beer states. According to Beer Serves America biennial report, the beer industry supports nearly 145,000 jobs across the state,
contributes $31.6 billion in economic impact and pays $10.9 billion in wages. From farmers and distributors to bartenders, servers, and small business owners, beer touches nearly every corner of our economy. Nationwide, the industry supports 2.42 million jobs and generates $471 billion in economic activity.

Aside from beer’s economic value, it provides social value. Neighborhood bars, taprooms, and restaurants are often among the few remaining places where people gather in person.
At a time when Americans across generations are spending less time with friends and more time online, these on-premises establishments provide something increasingly rare: a real
human connection. Supporting them is an investment in both economic stability and community well-being.

Beer continues to evolve to meet the needs of consumers. Brewers are innovating to give people more options that align with moderation and balance, without sacrificing flavor or
the shared experience that makes beer special. At FX Matt Brewing, that means offering a thoughtfully brewed 3% mid-strength beer like our Saranac Weekend Warrior, designed for
longer conversations, shared meals, and moments of connection where quality and responsibility go hand in hand.

These innovations matter not just for consumers, but for the health of the industry itself. On-premises beer sales now make up more than 15% of the category by volume, according
to the Beer Institute Sales-to-Retailer (STR) data and have outperformed other sales channels this year. When people choose to gather locally, they support small businesses,
hospitality workers, and the social infrastructure that keeps communities strong.

It’s why, now more than ever, smart federal policies that help our community and the beer industry matter. Legislation like the Creating Hospitality Economic Enhancement for
Restaurants and Servers (CHEERS) Act, championed by our Upstate New York Member of Congress, Representative Claudia Tenney, recognizes the importance of the hospitality and
beverage industries and helps ensure breweries and on-premises partners can continue to thrive. The CHEERS Act helps local bars and restaurants invest in their tap systems, saving
costs overall and allowing them to reinvest in the people and communities that make their business thrive. Policies that support responsible consumption, innovation, and local
businesses are not just good for brewers, they’re good for New York.

As we head into the holidays and toward a new year, beer will continue to play a role in how New Yorkers celebrate, reconnect, and reset. With thoughtful innovation and smart policy,
brewers, lawmakers, and hospitality leaders can work together to ensure our industry remains a source of jobs, community, and connection for generations to come. Let’s work
together to keep New York’s beer industry strong.